Gabe Jacas is just one of the key components of a Fighting Illini team that has performed immensely well, projecting himself as a potential steal of a draft selection.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper has even gone so far as to say he could see the outside linebacker being selected as a first-round pick. Several others also have him as an early-round pick, at least.
Jacas has turned the heads of NFL scouts with his impressive abilities and skillset, which include his versatility and outstanding speed in getting to the quarterback. Some would argue that edge rusher has become the most important position in football, and between Jacas’ burst off the snap, what he brings from a wrestling background and his physical attributes, there’s a lot to like.
But he’s still very self-aware of areas he believes he can improve in.
“It’s hand placement, it’s leverage,” he said in an interview with RG.org. “It’s staying low, and just that first that get off, that first step, and just being quicker off the ball… doing different moves, doing moves that can help me win (individual matchups faster. So there are always things I can improve on in my game, and I’ve been working on those things.”
Jacas, who has also been considered something of a DE/EDGE/OLB hybrid, wouldn’t want to play football any other way, and loves the position he’s in.
“And I love being in that position,” he continued. “It’s fun attacking the quarterback. It’s fun going against tackles. You know, I wouldn’t ask for anything else.”
Jacas started 13 games last season, tallying 74 tackles while also leading his team in tackles for (13). Jacas registered eight sacks, 10 quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery over the same time period.
It will be interesting to see how he builds upon that as Illinois prepares to face Western Illinois on Aug. 29 to open the season.